Christensen was recently honored with the James Beard Award for Outstanding Chef in America.
Christensen owns and operates several Raleigh restaurants as well as a cocktail bar and event space.
As she built her business, she became a national leader in the industry pushing for change.
Christensen is also a philanthropist, work she believes sets her apart in winning the top honor.
You can watch Ashley Christensen on Strahan & Sara at 1 p.m. EST on ABC11.
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